SKDC team will splash for cash at charity event

An intrepid team of politicians from South Kesteven District Council is to take to the water to raise a torrent of cash for charity.

Cabinet members have signed up for the Grantham Rotary Swimarathon at The Meres which runs over the weekend 1-3 February.

Those throwing themselves in at deep end on February 1 will be Deputy Leader of the Council, Councillor Kelham Cooke, Cllr Helen Goral (Growth and Communications), Cllr Dr Peter Moseley (Environment) and Cllr Nick Robins (Retail and Visitor Economy).

Cllr Cooke, who used to swim at county level, said: "Both Cllr Goral and I felt it would be a fun thing to do - and with the others joining in we can make a real difference raising money for charity.

"Last year the timings didn't fit everyone's diary so this time we were determined not to miss out!

"We will all be cheering each other on for the challenge, which is to swim as many lengths as possible during our turn in the water."

The SwimSK team can be backed at the Virgin Money Giving website.

Cllr Goral said: "If we can raise plenty of money it will make the dip slightly more bearable!

"Anything anyone can spare would be greatly appreciated. The charities do some incredible work in our community and this is our small way of supporting them."

Every year the Swimarathon brings the community together with swimmers of all ages and abilities, from businesses, schools and clubs to entire families, getting involved.

The first Rotary Swimarathon took place in February 1990 to raise money for local charities and deserving causes. Sponsor money will be divided and donated to causes local to the Grantham area. More than £764,000 has been raised so far with the annual total regularly topping £35,000.

Teams swim in relays for 55 minutes each, supported by a constant stream of spectators in the stands cheering them on. You can still register via http://rotaryswimarathon.org/

For media enquiries:

Email the SKDC communications team at pr@southkesteven.gov.uk or call 01476 406498 or 406440